Situating Workable Response.

The re-creation of political institutions is a crucial task for

maintaining stability in states where civil wars have destroyed the

foundations of both governmental and civic institutions. In Afghanistan,

a movement towards the long-term goals of a sustainable economy and

self-governance can only enhance the prospects for empowerment and

trust building. The goals of peace-building will ultimately be achieved by

reconstruction and reconciliation that are geared towards social and

institutional structures that can be mobilized to prevent future conflicts.

The end of an armed struggle is symbolized by the participation of former

adversaries in a political process through the formation of political parties

and mobilization of their supporters within a democratic framework.

Holding elections is just the first step towards the establishment of a

functioning political system and democracy. In Afghanistan, holding of

Presidential and Parliamentary elections and drafting a constitution serve

as a legal and institutional basis for creating new governmental structures,

while responding to the contentious issue of political legitimacy. It is also

to be understood that the benefits of democratic process is linked to the

economic performance of the political system and failure can erode the

slowly growing positive sentiments.

Besides, a sustained and consistent support from the international

community is necessary. The international community should not shun

Afghanistan. Rebuilding sustainable political institutions should be

considered the central task along with other short-term priorities.

To ensure effectiveness and sustainability, the structure of Afghan governance must be home grown and not be based on “off-the-shelf’” Western model of liberal democracy. Political institutions, congruous to the traditions of the land, must be developed at the national, provincial, and local levels. These institutions will define and develop their roles in consonance with other institutions at these three

levels. Development of organizational infrastructure and judicious power

sharing at all levels is vital for creating a healthy and vibrant political

environment. Institutionalization of democratic practice is a long process

interacting not only with the formation of new social groups but also historical traditions. An indigenous form of federalism can serve to counter several ethnic, sub-national and secessionist problems that the present day Afghan polity is experiencing.

To be continued...